Integrative management of Kitibha Kushta with Snehapana: A Case Study Perspective

Abstract

The skin is the body's largest organ, making up more than 10% of its total mass, and it plays a crucial role in facilitating the body’s closest interaction with the environment^[1]. Skin disorders are commonly caused by factors such as altered lifestyles, lack of physical activity, poor hygiene, mental stress, and improper eating habits. Skin conditions represent one of the largest groups of health issues In Ayurveda, Kushta is a broad term encompassing nearly all skin diseases. It is associated with imbalances in Tridosha, Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, and Ambu. Rakta Dushti (vitiation of blood) is considered the primary cause of skin disorders (Twak Vikaras). The etiological factors include physical, physiological, psychological, psychosocial, hereditary and Papakarma (sinful activities). Rukshana Karma followed by Snehapana can be given to those as a primary treatment for patients affected with Kushta. Virechana is the Shodhana Karma (purification therapy) recommended for treating Raktaja Vikaras (blood-related disorders). Following Shodhana, Shamana Chikitsa (palliative treatment) plays a vital role in alleviating Alpadosha (imbalanced Doshas). It plays a vital role in avoiding further accumulation of Doshas and alleviating Sesha Doshas. In this case study, a 52-year-old male patient was admitted presenting with blackish-white circular lesions on both upper limbs and lower limbs, along with itching and powdery discharge for the past 3 months. Later diagnosed with Kitibha Kushta having similar symptoms of plaque psoriasis. The patient underwent Langana, Rukshana, Snehapana (oleation), Virechana (therapeutic purgation), and resulting in significant improvement.